Can't access files after restore.

[foregone96]

I had to format my computer the other day but before I did so I backed up all my videos, mp3, photos etc through the Windows Vista system recovery feature onto an external hard drive. I restored them all when I was done formatting but now none of them will play. I get an error message that it can not open the file. They all worked fine before. I have tried VLC, Windows media player and Media Player Classic. When I try to open photos that were backed up it says I do not have permission but I have an administrative account on my comp. Does anyone know what the problem might be?

[Allan]

Try taking ownership: http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/add-take-ownership-to-explorer-right-click-menu-in-vista/

[foregone96]

I tried using that for the whole folder but it didn't work. Then I used it on just a single mp3 file and it did work...but it won't do it for any other individual files. Am I doing something wrong?

[Allan]

The subinacl tool is a powerful utility that will allow you to change ownership of all files and registry keys at once (it runs automatically and takes a few minutes to complete). I've used it several times without issue. Still, I suggest you create a disc image first.

Download: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=E8BA3E56-D8FE-4A91-93CF-ED6985E3927B&displaylang=en

Usage: http://articles.techrepublic.com.com/5100-10878_11-1051004.html

[foregone96]

I installed SubInAcl but when I try to run it the command line pops up for a second then closes

[Allan]

right-click on command prompt and run as administrator

[foregone96]

Huh this is weird. I guess the TakeOwnership did work but only if I copy the file out of its original folder to a new one. At least I can get them all now. Thanks for the help!

[Allan]

Sure.